544. Deputy Niall Collins asked the Minister for Education and Youth to review correspondence (details supplied) and advise on the steps to take on the matter; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [64865/26]

The Irish language has particular social, historical and educational importance and is part of the unique cultural heritage of the Irish people. In recognising the linguistic, social and cultural importance of Irish and English in Ireland, both languages are included as core subjects in the national curricula for recognised primary and post-primary schools and centres for education in Ireland.

The decision to exempt a student from the study of Irish has very significant implications for his/her future learning and potential employment opportunities. Students should therefore be given every reasonable opportunity to participate in the learning of Irish for as long as possible. The policy of the Department of Education and Youth is to provide for the inclusive education of children with special educational needs in mainstream education, other than in circumstances where it would not be in the best interest of the child, or the effective education of children with whom they are to be educated.

The only circumstances in which an exemption from the study of Irish can be granted are those set out in the relevant circular, Circular 0054/2022 (www.gov.ie/en/circular/28b2b-exemptions-from-the-study-of-irish-primary/) for primary and Circular 0055/2022 (www.gov.ie/en/circular/f33d5-exemptions-from-the-study-of-irish-post-primary/) for post-primary. There are no other circumstances under which an exemption can be considered or granted.

The relevant criteria in this case may Section 2.2.1 of the circulars. An exemption may be granted under this category to a student whose education was received outside the State (for a minimum period of three consecutive years) where they did not have opportunity to engage in the study of Irish and who is either:

not less than 12 years of age on the day of their enrolment or re-enrolment or

enrolling following the completion of the full course of primary education recognised by another state.

If it is believed that a student meets the criteria for an exemption from the study of Irish, then it is open to the parents to make an application for an exemption to the student’s current school.

The government website has further information on exemptions from the study of Irish including guidelines and FAQs and these can be accessed here: www.gov.ie/en/service/irish-exemption/.